JICA training builds DRR capacity for MORDI staff

15 Dec JICA training builds DRR capacity for MORDI staff

Kansai, October 31^st, 2023 – Japan, a country with extensive experience in managing and mitigating the impact of natural disasters, is launching a comprehensive program to share its knowledge with the international community. The program is part of a Knowledge Co-Creation Program run by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).  This initiative seeks to help participants enhance their capacity for community-based disaster risk reduction, emphasizing the critical role of self-help, mutual-help, and public-help during crises.

Mr. Siaosi Pohiva Jr, the Safeguard Officer of MORDI Tonga was selected to be part of the program.

“I am learning so much in relation to planning and implementing disaster drills, safety measures at a community level initiated by government as well as our role as community members. There is so much lessons to be learned here and many in which is applicable to Tonga and the work we do.” Mr Pohiva Jr reports.

Japan’s journey towards community-based disaster risk reduction began in the wake of two significant seismic events: the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake in 1995 and the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011. These disasters not only resulted in widespread destruction but also exposed vulnerabilities in public assistance systems during the early phases of emergency response. Communities played a pivotal role in saving lives and recovery efforts.

Inspired by these challenges, Japan has extensively revised its disaster management strategies. The nation has reevaluated its approach, introducing self-help and mutual-help within communities to supplement public assistance, particularly in catastrophic situations. This transformation led to the development of numerous community-based disaster risk reduction programs.

Recognizing the evolving nature of disasters, including intensification due to climate change and challenges stemming from demographic shifts, Japan is committed to preparing for future calamities. Lessons learned from past disasters are being re-examined, and new strategies for community-based disaster risk reduction are being sought to address contemporary vulnerabilities.